‘Prove it!’ same-sex performativity among sexual minority women and men

Abstract

Past research has focused on understanding performances of same-sex sexual behaviour between women as occurring in high-pressure exploitative contexts, primarily for the purpose of arousing a male audience. These women, who are presumed heterosexual, have been described as ‘performing bisexuality’ for an also presumably heterosexual male audience. Drunkenness, dares and fulfilling others’ desires are common reasons why heterosexual individuals perform public same-sex sexual behaviour. The present study explored same-sex performative behaviour among sexual minority individuals. Participants included 84 young adults (age 18–25) who identified as lesbian, gay, bisexual and queer. Participants completed an anonymous online survey consisting of both qualitative and quantitative questions about their same-sex performative behaviour, as well as their attitudes towards such behaviours. Results revealed that sexual minority women are asked more frequently to engage in same-sex performative behaviour than sexual minority men. Findings also showed that sexual minority participants are expected to engage in performative same-sex sexual behaviours to authenticate their sexual orientation label. Discussion focuses on the unique perspective of sexual minorities regarding same-sex performance and also explores potential sex differences in the findings.